Creative Writing Degree

by Sandra Egger
23rd September 2013

How important do you think it is to have a creative writing degree and why? Do you think that it is neccessary to have one to be a good writer? What are your opnions... :)

Replies

I don't frankly believe in degrees. Many famous writers of the world do not hold a degree. It really doesn't matter, it is just that people tend to look at the professional degrees more. Sometimes, your reputation may float up due to the degrees.

It depends, times are changing and so are the people's attitude to everything.

But I would just say one thing - Professional degrees do not at all affect the creativity of a person......

PS : I am not against the degrees, I myself am thinking of doing one in the coming years...

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Neeraj
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Neeraj V Murali
23/09/2013

I've been thinking about this a lot recently - the most recent issue of Poets & Writers magazine has several articles on the topic of MFAs, both supporting their ability to improve a writer's skill and questioning their expense and effectiveness in aiding publication. I think the truth lies in both of those; creative writing degrees may be good for an individual looking to learn more about the skill of writing, who wants feedback and a breakdown of where they could get better, but they are neither necessary nor, in fact, a way to get published.

If money were no object. I would take one because anything that can help my writing and give me a chance to meet other interesting, committed people sounds fantastic. Going full time, and being able to dive into writing with no distractions, would be a dream. But, I won't be taking one now because I have to earn a living, and I have family, etc.

So - to each their own.

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Simon P. Clark
23/09/2013

I don't think it's important at all. Creativity comes from the heart. However, it's useful to join a local writing group / community so you can bounce your ideas about and get feedback. It's a great confidence builder.

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Renee Paule
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